JUDGMENT

Raju, J.-These three appeals are dealt with together since not only they involve a common question of law but also for the reason that they were dealt with in common in the High Court and submissions have been also in common before us.

2. The respondent in Civil Appeal No. 113/98 was appointed as Assistant Traffic Manager in Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (for short KSRTC ) pursuant to a Select List of candidates prepared and published on 13/15-12-82 for a period of two years and was placed on probation. On 10.1.85, due to certain lapses, which were pending inquiry, an order postponing one increment was passed. On 7.8.85, the period of probation was extended upto 14.6.86. Ultimately, on 13.1.88 his services came to be terminated for the reason that his Performance Report during the period of probation was not satisfactory and he also failed to show any improvement despite having been given a chance to do so. Aggrieved, Writ Petition No. 4273/88 was filed before the High Court challenging the said order of termination and for consequential benefits.

3. The respondent in Civil Appeal No. 114/98 joined the service in KSRTC as a Clerk on 5.3.63. Thereafter, he was co